DCS Prevention

Prior to 1980, there was an organization known as “Leofast”, located at Brooks A.F.B., TX , where divers consulted with hyperbaric physicians concerning possible diving injuries.In the twelve years prior to 1980 there were 62 cases of DCS reported and described. Here are some of the suspected causes of the illnesses thought to be DCS:

Repititive dive

Exceeded No-decompression limits

Running out of air, rapid ascent

Diving on the edge of No-decompression limits

Deep or repetitive dives using computer outside the limits of the tables or no-decompression limits

Flying after diving

Diving at altitude

Vigorous exercise before and after a dive

There are other factors that are thought to increase the chances of getting DCS but have little data in support; some of these are: